Owls in Indiana

Owls in Indiana

Nestled within the heartland of the United States, the state of Indiana harbors a hidden nocturnal treasure that has captivated both nature enthusiasts and avid birdwatchers alike. Welcome to the mysterious realm of Indiana’s owls, where these remarkable creatures silently patrol the moonlit skies, shrouded in an air of enchantment.

From the majestic Great Horned Owl to the elusive Eastern Screech Owl, this article embarks on a journey to unravel the secrets of these nocturnal hunters that call Indiana their home. Prepare to delve into the world of silent flight, keen senses, and remarkable adaptations, as we unlock the allure of Indiana’s owl population.

1. Great Horned Owl

  • Scientific name: Bubo virginianus
  • Life span: 25 – 50 years
  • Size: 43 to 64 cm (17 to 25 in)
  • Weight: 1200 to 1600 g (2.64 to 3.52 lbs)
  • Wingspan: 91 to 153 cm (3ft 0in to 5ft 0in)
  • Status: Least Concern

The Great Horned Owl’s adaptability and wide range across North America make it a prominent bird. Thriving in diverse environments like deserts, wetlands, grasslands, and cities, this nocturnal creature has mastered survival in various habitats. With keen senses, it emerges in the darkness, attuned to the mysteries of the night.

A suspicious-looking Great Horned Owl has spotted the cameraman

The Great Horned Owl, known for its early breeding habits, initiates courtship rituals as early as January. Males showcase their nesting site selection skills through aerial displays and stomping around the chosen location to attract females. They also seem to prefer abandoned nests of larger birds instead of building their own.

Notorious for their opportunistic feeding habits, the Great Horned Owls are true omnivores, consuming a wide array of prey. Their diet showcases an impressive lack of fussiness, as they are known to consume virtually anything that walks, crawls, flies, or swims. Analysing their excrement reveals their dietary flexibility, with a substantial portion consisting of small mammals like mice, jackrabbits, and small birds.

Although not currently threatened as a species, the North American population of the Great Horned Owl has experienced a significant decline over the past four decades. The primary cause of this decline can be attributed to human interference. Disturbingly, more than 65% of owl fatalities result from actions such as shooting, trapping, vehicle collisions, electrocution by power lines, and secondary poisoning from consuming rodents targeted by rat poison. Moreover, the owls have historically been viewed as pests by hunters and farmers due to their predation on domestic chickens and small game, leading to centuries of persecution

2. American Barn Owl

  • Scientific name: Tyto furcata
  • Life span: 10 years
  • Size: 34 to 38 cm (13 to 15 in)
  • Weight: 400 to 600 g (0.88 to 1.3 lbs)
  • Wingspan: 80 to 95 cm (31 to 37 in)
  • Status: Least Concern

The American Barn Owl is a subspecies group that together with the Western Barn Owl and the Eastern Barn Owl, make up the species Barn Owl. The American Barn Owl is strictly nocturnal, hiding away in hollow tree trunks and dense vegetation in the daytime. It has a creamy white face, chest, and belly with a pale brown upper body and wings. Its face has a distinguished look that has given rise to many myths around the world of the bird being godly and otherworldly.

A curious American Barn Owl looking at something.

American Barn Owls are monogamous, partnering with one mate for life. The male takes charge of finding a nesting spot, like a nesting box or tree cavity, during the March to June nesting season. He marks the territory and awaits the female’s arrival. Courtship follows, with the male chasing and swooping around the female in preparation for breeding.

In North America, the American Barn Owl’s diet primarily consists of voles and shrews, which make up approximately 90% of its food intake. These nocturnal hunters rely on their unique asymmetrically positioned ears to pinpoint the precise location of their prey based on sound, enabling them to navigate and hunt effectively in complete darkness. Compared to other owls of similar size, the American Barn Owl possesses a higher metabolic rate, necessitating a greater amount of food to sustain itself.

While the American Barn Owl is not globally threatened, populations in North America have experienced declines due to the proliferation of pesticides and rodenticides. These substances can contaminate the owl’s food sources, leading to the potential poisoning and mass mortality of individuals. Nonetheless, the American Barn Owl has demonstrated resilience in recovering from such losses in the short term.

3. Barred Owl

  • Scientific name: Strix varia
  • Life span: 8 years
  • Size: 40 to 63 cm (15 to 25 in)
  • Weight: 610 to 1,150 g (1.34 to 2.54 lb)
  • Wingspan: 96 to 125 cm (38 to 49 in)
  • Status: Least Concern

The Barred Owls don’t migrate, and their territories are extremely small compared to the other owls. In a study where 158 owls were banded and then found later, not even one had moved farther than 6 miles away. Despite their small territories and lacking adventure lust, the Barred Owl is common in most of the eastern states and southern Canada. The Barred Owls are brownish-grey on the whole body, with dark striping on the underside.

A close up of a Barred Owl

Barred Owls prefer nesting in mature forests, usually selecting tree cavities for their nests. They may also utilize abandoned hawk or crow nests. Breeding pairs are often monogamous and maintain the same nest site year after year. The nesting season typically begins in late winter or early spring, with the female laying 2-4 eggs. The male assists in feeding the female during this time.

Barred Owls are opportunistic hunters, preying on a variety of small mammals such as mice, voles, and squirrels. They also feed on birds, amphibians, reptiles, and occasionally fish. Their hunting technique involves perching quietly and swooping down to capture prey. This adaptable diet contributes to their successful survival in different habitats.

Barred Owls are not globally threatened, but habitat loss and fragmentation have impacted their populations in some areas. Human activities such as logging, and urbanization have led to the destruction of their preferred habitats.

Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring forested areas, as well as implementing measures to reduce the negative impacts of habitat alteration. The historical expansion of Barred Owl populations into the range of the endangered Spotted Owl has also raised conservation concerns and prompted further research to better understand their interactions.

4. Eastern Screech-Owl

  • Scientific name: Megascops asio
  • Life span: 8 to 10 years
  • Size: 16 to 25 cm (6.5 to 10 in)
  • Weight: 121 to 244 g (4.25 to 8.5 oz)
  • Wingspan: 46 to 61 cm (18 to 24 in)
  • Status: Least Concern

The Eastern Screech-Owl displays remarkable adaptability to human presence, thriving in areas heavily influenced by human development. Its habitat spans from the eastern states of the US down to Mexico. Interestingly, this bird exhibits two distinct color morphs.

The southern population showcases a reddish hue, while the northern population leans towards a greyish appearance. This color variation likely corresponds to the woodland environments in which they reside, demonstrating an adaptation to blend with their surroundings.

This Eastern Screech-Owl doesn’t seem to mind its picture getting taken

Eastern Screech-Owls prefer nesting in tree cavities, often utilizing natural hollows or abandoned woodpecker nests. They are also known to take up residence in man-made structures such as nest boxes. Breeding pairs maintain the same nesting site year after year. The female lays a clutch of 3-5 eggs, which are incubated by both parents. Once hatched, the young owls stay in the nest for several weeks before eventually fledging.

Eastern Screech-Owls have a diverse diet, primarily consisting of small mammals like mice, voles, and shrews. They also feed on insects, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Their hunting technique involves perching and patiently listening for prey before swooping down to capture it with their sharp talons. Their adaptability to various food sources contributes to their successful survival in different environments.

The Eastern Screech-Owl is not considered globally threatened, but habitat loss and fragmentation have impacted their populations in some regions. Preservation of mature forests and the creation of suitable nesting sites, such as nest boxes, have been important conservation measures. Additionally, efforts are made to raise awareness about the importance of protecting natural habitats and promoting responsible land management practices to benefit these captivating owls.

5. Long-eared Owl

  • Scientific name: Asio otus
  • Life span: 10 to 27 years
  • Size: 31 to 40 cm (12 to 16 in)
  • Weight: 160 to 435 g (5.6 to 15.3 oz)
  • Wingspan: 86 to 102 cm (2ft 10in to 3ft 4in)
  • Status: Least Concern

The Long-eared owl holds a prominent position as one of the most widespread and abundant owl species worldwide. Adapting seamlessly to pine tree habitats, its brown and black plumage provides exceptional camouflage amidst the lush foliage. Emitting distinct calls that carry for up to a mile, this owl’s vocalizations resonate even in the heart of dense forests, becoming an iconic auditory experience for those exploring woodland realms.

This Long-Eared Owl seems like it was surprised by the cameraman

Long-eared Owls typically nest in dense forests or woodlands, often selecting trees with dense foliage for concealment. They rely on natural tree cavities or old nests built by other birds, such as crows or hawks. Breeding pairs exhibit monogamous behaviour, with both parents participating in incubating the eggs and raising the young. Nests are carefully guarded, and the parents use their remarkable camouflage to protect their offspring from potential predators.

The Long-eared Owl’s diet primarily consists of small mammals, particularly rodents like mice, voles, and shrews. They are skilled nocturnal hunters, silently gliding through the night to ambush their prey. Their exceptional hearing and vision aid them in pinpointing and capturing their targets with precision. Occasionally, they supplement their diet with birds, insects, and amphibians, displaying a level of dietary flexibility.

The Long-eared Owl is not globally threatened; however, it faces challenges related to habitat loss and degradation. The preservation of mature forests and woodland areas is crucial for their continued survival. Efforts are underway to promote responsible land management practices, protect nesting sites, and raise awareness about the importance of conserving the ecosystems that support these magnificent birds. Monitoring their populations and studying their behaviour contribute to understanding their conservation needs better.

6. Short-eared Owl

  • Scientific name: Asio flammeus
  • Life span: 12 years
  • Size: 34 to 43 cm (13 to 17 in)
  • Weight: 206 to 475 g (7.3 to 16.8 oz)
  • Wingspan:  85 to 110 cm (33 to 43 in)
  • Status: Least Concern

The Short-Eared Owl is a widespread species found across the globe, ranking among the most abundant owls worldwide. It possesses a distinct appearance with a short, black bill and a mottled brown body adorned with barred wings and a tail. Its breast feathers exhibit a brownish hue while the belly appears lighter. Unlike the nocturnal habits commonly associated with owls, the Short-Eared Owl is frequently observed during daylight hours when it actively hunts for its prey, setting it apart from its counterparts.

A Short-Eared Owl sitting on the grass

Short-Eared Owls prefer nesting on the ground, often in open areas such as grasslands, marshes, or tundra. They scrape out shallow depressions or repurpose existing burrows as their nests. Breeding pairs are known to engage in courtship displays, including mid-air dances, to strengthen their bond. The female typically incubates the eggs while the male provides food.

The Short-Eared Owl has a diverse diet, primarily consisting of small mammals such as mice, voles, and shrews. It also preys on birds, insects, and occasionally amphibians. Their hunting strategy involves low-level flight, gliding, and hovering, allowing them to spot and capture prey in open habitats. They exhibit exceptional hearing abilities to locate hidden prey.

Short-Eared Owls face various conservation challenges, including habitat loss and degradation due to agricultural practices and urbanization. Conservation efforts aim to protect and restore their preferred habitats, emphasizing the importance of maintaining open areas and preserving grasslands. Raising awareness about the ecological role of these owls and implementing measures to mitigate human disturbances in their nesting and foraging grounds are crucial for their conservation.

7. Northern Saw-whet Owl

  • Scientific name: Aegolius acadicus
  • Life span: 7 to 17 years
  • Size: 17 to 22 cm (6.7 to 8.7 in)
  • Weight: 54 to 151 g (1.9 to 5.3 oz)
  • Wingspan: 42 to 56.3 cm (16.5 to 22.2 in)
  • Status: Least Concern

The Northern Saw-Whet Owl is a diminutive and elusive bird, renowned as one of the tiniest species in North America. With its round, whitish face adorned with brown streaks, this owl possesses a distinctive appearance. Its dark beak and yellow eyes add to its captivating charm. The belly exhibits a pale hue with hints of brown, while the upper part showcases a darker brown shade adorned with whitish spots. Interestingly, the owl’s name derives from its call, reminiscent of the sound produced when a saw is sharpened against a whetstone.

A sleepy looking Northern Saw-whet Owl sitting on a branch.

The Northern Saw-whet Owl selects dense coniferous forests for nesting, often utilizing tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker nests. Breeding pairs are monogamous, and the female lays a small clutch of 3-7 eggs. The male actively assists in providing food for the female during incubation, and both parents care for the young owlets.

The Northern Saw-whet Owl’s diet primarily consists of small mammals, particularly mice and voles. They are skilled nocturnal hunters, swooping down on their prey with precision. In addition to mammals, they also feed on small birds, insects, and occasionally amphibians. Their adaptability to various food sources contributes to their survival in different habitats.

The Northern Saw-whet Owl is not globally threatened, but habitat loss and fragmentation pose challenges to their populations. Conservation efforts focus on preserving mature forests, creating nest boxes, and raising awareness about the importance of maintaining suitable habitats for these elusive owls. Studying their populations and monitoring their behaviour aids in their conservation and understanding their ecological needs.

8. Snowy Owl

  • Scientific name: Bubo scandiacus
  • Life span: 10 to 28
  • Size: 52.5 to 64 cm (20.7 to 25.2 in)
  • Weight: 1706 to 2426 g (3.76 to 5.34 lb)
  • Wingspan: 146 to 183 cm (4ft 9in to 6ft 0in)
  • Status: Vulnerable

The Snowy Owl is a highly recognizable Arctic owl that migrates to North America during winters. It features a predominantly white plumage, with males being whiter than females. Unlike other owls, Snowy Owls can be active during both day and night, adapting to the long Arctic summer days and short winter days. They are nomadic birds, covering vast distances between breeding and wintering grounds with varying winter ranges each year.

This guy seems to be angry at someone

Snowy Owls build their nests on the ground in the Arctic tundra, using scraped-out depressions lined with feathers and vegetation. Breeding pairs are monogamous, and the female lays a clutch of 3-11 eggs. Both parents participate in incubation and caring for the young owlets, which can leave the nest within a few weeks.

The Snowy Owl’s diet primarily consists of lemmings, a small rodent species abundant in their Arctic habitat. During low lemming population years, they adapt their diet to include other small mammals, birds, and even fish. They hunt by perching or soaring and employing their keen eyesight to locate prey, then swoop down for capture.

Snowy Owls are not currently considered globally threatened. However, they face certain challenges, including disturbances in their breeding grounds and impacts of climate change on their Arctic habitat. Conservation efforts focus on monitoring populations, studying their ecology, and ensuring the preservation and protection of key nesting sites. Awareness campaigns promote responsible human behaviour around Snowy Owls to minimize disturbances.

Where to find Owls in Indiana

Indiana offers great opportunities for owl enthusiasts to observe these fascinating birds in their natural habitats. To find owls in Indiana, venture into areas with suitable owl habitats such as forests, woodlands, and wetlands.

Four recommended areas to explore are the Hoosier National Forest, Prophetstown State Park, Brown County State Park, and Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge. To increase your chances of spotting owls, visit these locations during the early morning or evening hours when owls are most active.

Look for roosting sites, listen for owl calls, and scan tree branches carefully. Remember to respect their space and observe from a distance to ensure the owls’ well-being.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Indiana provides a diverse range of habitats for owl enthusiasts to discover and appreciate these majestic birds. By exploring these areas during optimal times and respecting the owls’ space, observers can immerse themselves in the enchanting world of Indiana’s owls, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for these remarkable creatures that call the state home.

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